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The population of Egypt consists of 100,388,073 people.

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Not surprisingly, the largest countries in the world in terms of population are China and India, with both countries now having populations of well over a billion. The United States comes in third with just under 325 million residents. The BRIC countries ( Brazil, Russia, India and China), generally regarded as the four major emerging economies expected to dominate in the 21st century, are all in the top ten most populous countries, indicating how important the sheer size of their populations are to their economic expansion.

However, a number of countries considered by the International Monetary Fund to be developing countries (that is, having not achieved a high degree of industrialization relative to their populations, and where the population typically has a medium to low standard of living) also have sizeable populations, including Nigeria (over 190 million), Bangladesh (almost 165 million) and Mexico (around 129 million), demonstrating that the issues affecting developing nations span multiple continents.

It is notable that a number of the largest economies in the world have smaller populations, particularly in Europe. The United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy are all among the top ten largest economies and all have populations of under 100 million. Their numbers range from 82 million (Germany) to just under 60 million (Italy).

Furthermore, several extremely small countries, such as Monaco, Luxembourg, and the Cayman Islands - all with fewer than a million residents - play a much larger role in the financial world than their population numbers would suggest. In contrast, Canada, which is also a major economic player and one of the largest countries in the world by landmass, has a relatively small population for its size, with around 36.5 million residents.

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Not surprisingly, the largest countries in the world in terms of population are China and India, with both countries now having populations of well over a billion. The United States comes in third with just under 325 million residents.

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Egypt is connected with the two continents of North Africa and Southwest Asia.
Egypt is connected with the two continents of North Africa and Southwest Asia.

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Leader: Abdel Fattah el-Sisi – President

Headquarter city: Cairo

Government: Republic Government

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Much like Spain, France is a sovereign state with domestic and foreign territory under its control. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel/North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic. France's foreign territories include French Guiana and a number of islands in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans. France is divided into 18 integral regions (including 5 oversea) covering a combined area of 248,573 square miles with a total population of 67.25 million; the country is a unitary semi-presidential republic. France's capital is Paris, which is also the largest city in the country.

France is considered an international hub for cultural diversity. It contains the world's fourth-largest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is the world's leading tourist destination, receiving 83 million foreign visitors annually. In addition, France has the world's seventh-largest economy and is strong in terms of education, health care, life expectancy, and human development. France is one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and reserves the power to veto - it also has nuclear capabilities. France is a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, as well as the Group of 7, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the World Trade Organization, and La Francophonie.

Parliament

The French political scene is informed and shaped by the French Constitution of the French Fifth Republic, which states that France is to be an "indivisible, secular, democratic, and social Republic", and provides for the "attachment to the Rights of Man and the principles of national sovereignty as defined by the Declaration of 1789."

The French Republic is a unitary semi-presidential representative democratic republic. The executive branch of the French Government has two leaders: the President of the Republic (currently Emmanuel Macron) who is head of state and is elected for a 5-year term, and the Prime Minister, leads the Government.

The French Parliament is composed of a National Assembly and a Senate. The elected National Assembly deputies represent local constituencies over 5-year terms, who collectively retain the power to dismiss the government. Senators are elected for 6-year terms (previously 9-year terms), and half of the seats are re-elected every 3 years. The Senate bows to the authority of the National Assembly in the event of a disagreement. The French Government has significant influence on the agenda of Parliament.

Parliament comes together for a nine-month session each year, though an additional session can be called if required. The National Assembly has the power to collapse a government if an absolute majority votes to censure. Members of Parliament have full parliamentary immunity. Each assembly has a committee that write reports, and each can establish parliamentary enquiry commissions if required.

Executive Branch

France's system of government is only semi-presidential as both a President and a Prime Minister are in power simultaneously. The President is the more powerful of the two, and he appoints the Prime Minister - he cannot dismiss him, but can ask him to resign if in the same party. The President is the main figurehead of executive action when his party controls Parliament, and he can choose Parliamentary members and set the political agenda at will. The President's power is curbed significantly when his opponents control Parliament as he must choose a Prime Minister and Government who reflect the majority agenda.

The Government

The Prime Minister, chosen by the President, leads the Government, which is comprised of junior and senior ministers. It is responsible for the civil service, government agencies, and the armed forces. The government answers directly to Parliament and can be forced to resign if the National Assembly passes a motion of censure. One of the duties of ministers is to answer questions from members of Parliament, known as the 'questions au gouvernement.' Ministers must also attend Parliamentary meetings when applicable laws are being discussed.

How is justice done?

By law, France has a separate judicial branch with an entirely independent judiciary which does not answer to the other two branches of government. France's legal system is centred on codified law, yet case law has significant sway in the courts. The French judicial system is divided into two sections: judicial and administrative.

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Much like Spain, France is a sovereign state with domestic and foreign territory under its control. Metropolitan France extends from the Mediterranean Sea to the English Channel/North Sea, and from the Rhine to the Atlantic. France's foreign territories include French Guiana and a number of islands in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans.

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GDP(IMF): $299.59 billion

GDP(UN): $270.14 billion

GDP per Capita: $2,984.31

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Egypt Population 2017 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)

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During 1970 to 2010, there was a population boom due to advancements in agricultural productivity and medical fields, which were made possible due to the Green Revolution. When Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt in 1798, the country's population amounted to only 3 million. Over the years, population has increased and decreased, due to erratic fluctuation patterns.

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Living standards in Egypt are less then international standards. 60% of the Egyptian population are under the poverty line. Poverty-stricken Egyptians live in squalor, with poor and overcrowded housing, limited food supply, and inadequate access to clean water, good quality health care, or education.

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Living standards in Egypt are low by international standards, and have declined consistently since 1990. According to United Nations figures, some 20 to 30 percent of the population live below the poverty line. Despite widespread poverty, however, uneven development has led to the emergence of an affluent class that controls most of the country's wealth and enjoys an elevated standard of living that includes shopping at centers that feature the best imported goods. Living in such Cairo suburbs as Garden City, al-Zamalek, and Nasr New City, the wealthy send their children to private schools and to universities abroad. Yet not far from these affluent neighborhoods, a significant number of poor Egyptians live in squalor, with poor and overcrowded housing, limited food supply, and inadequate access to clean water, good quality health care, or education. The extremes are reflected in the country's distribution of income: in 1996, the wealthiest 20 percent of Egyptians controlled 39 percent of the country's wealth, while the poorest 20 percent controlled only 9.8 percent of wealth.

Uneven development in Egypt has not only affected the urban population. Inequality in the distribution of wealth is dictated by geographical regions. Historically, the north of Egypt has been more prosperous and received more government attention than the predominantly rural south, which stretches from Beni Suef, 120 kilometers (75 miles) south of Cairo to the border with Sudan. The central government, which retains great power over the country, has always been based in the north, and has

therefore based major economic activity in that area. According to the EIU Country Profile for 2000-01, almost one-half of economic and social establishments in the country are based in the northern cities of Cairo and Alexandria. This uneven development has fueled a cycle of rural-urban migration from south to north that has only started to abate since the mid-1990s. Migration has only served to aggravate the state of underdevelopment prevailing in the south.

The economic reforms launched by the Egyptian government in the early 1990s have been double-edged, severely affecting the lower classes and threatening to further erode popular support for the government. Both the rural and urban poor have suffered from the long decline in the quality of social services provided to Egyptians. A lack of adequate resources for schools and hospitals has meant that these services have declined in quality over the years. Despite this deterioration, 93 percent of primary level students are enrolled in schools, and a government-funded health-care system ensures that all Egyptians have access to some form of health care.

As a result of high inflation, which, at its peak, reached 28.5 percent in 1989, the middle and lower classes have seen their living standards erode since the 1980s. The problem has been compounded by the government's reduction of subsidies on basic foodstuffs and certain budget controls on public services since 1991. The government's awareness of the political implications of the complete lifting of subsidies has slowed down the implementation of IMF-mandated price deregulation. In 1991, to soften the impact of these measures on the poor and those affected by privatization, the government established the Social Fund for Development, a US$613 million project funded by the European Union, the World Bank, and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). The fund is a job creation project aimed at training and finding jobs for workers displaced as a result of privatization. However, poverty remains endemic in Egypt despite these efforts.

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Egypt Poverty and wealth, Information about Poverty and wealth in Egypt

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Living standards in Egypt are low by international standards, and have declined consistently since 1990. According to United Nations figures, some 20 to 30 percent of the population live below the poverty line.

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Egypt currency: Egyptian pound
Exchange rate with the Australian dollar: $100 (Australian Dollars) is 1112.35ج.م (Egyptian pound)

Egypt's official language is Arabic, however business is commonly conducted in English.

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Egypt Population 2017 (Demographics, Maps, Graphs)

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During 1970 to 2010, there was a population boom due to advancements in agricultural productivity and medical fields, which were made possible due to the Green Revolution. When Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Egypt in 1798, the country's population amounted to only 3 million. Over the years, population has increased and decreased, due to erratic fluctuation patterns.

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There are risks of traveling to Egypt due to threats from terrorist and violent political opposition groups. The Egyptian military or police, and Egyptian government facilities could be struck at any time. It is not recommended to travel to north-eastern Sinai Peninsula and Egypt’s western desert, as it is a particularly dangerous area with frequent attacks on security forces and civilians.

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Travel Warning - Egypt | U.S. Embassy in Egypt

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The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens to consider the risks of travel to Egypt due to threats from terrorist and violent political opposition groups. This replaces the Travel Warning issued on December 23, 2016. A number of terrorist groups, including ISIS, have committed multiple deadly attacks in Egypt, targeting government officials and security ...

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Time zone: Africa/Cairo (GMT +2.0)

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Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Country: Egypt

Lat/Long: 30°03'N / 31°14'E

Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Languages: Arabic

Dial Codes: +20 - See how to dial

EET (Eastern European Time)
UTC/GMT +2 hours

No Daylight Saving Time in 2019

6 hours ahead of
Washington DC

°F
Weather

Clear.
82 / 65 °F

Thu 31.

82 / 66 °F

Fri 1.

82 / 61 °F

More weather details
Weather by CustomWeather, © 2019

Sun in South: 11:38 am
Altitude: 46.2°

4:46 am - 5:14 am
6:02 pm - 6:30 pm

5:14 am - 5:42 am
5:34 pm - 6:02 pm

5:42 am - 6:07 am
5:10 pm - 5:34 pm

New Moon
October 28, 2019
5:38 am

First Quarter
November 4, 2019
12:23 pm

Need some help?

Tools & Converters

Airports

Cairo International Airport, CAI
About 11 mi ENE of Cairo

Alexandria International Airport, ALY
About 110 mi NW of Cairo

Other cities near Cairo

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Wednesday, October 30, 2019 Country: Egypt Lat/Long: 30°03'N / 31°14'E Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP) Languages: Arabic Dial Codes: +20 - See how to dial EET (Eastern European Time) UTC/GMT +2 hours No Daylight Saving Time in 2019 6 hours ahead ofWashington DC °F Clear.82 / 65 °F Thu 31.

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As human society evolved, through ancient times, Egyptians gradually gained a degree of personal identity. Egyptians picked up on a higher sense of individuality and also began to conceive the gods in a personalized form. Every Egyptian town had their own particular deity, manifested in a material fetish or a god represented in the shape of an animal, such as a cat-goddess, cobra-goddess, ibis-god or jackal-god. Over the centuries that emphasized local deities into a national religion with a smaller number of principal deities.

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One of the most interesting aspects of ancient Egypt is its religion. The depth of Egyptian thinking and the rich imagination displayed in the creation of ideas and images of the gods and goddesses are beyond compare. In elaborating their beliefs, the Egyptians were working on the cosmic plane, searching for an understanding of the most basic laws of the universe.

They developed the first thought forms of the Godhead - the beginnings of a religion. Their beliefs evolved slowly over the centuries and gradually developed into a comprehensive world view shared by the people of the Nile.

Religion is the glue that binds local communities into nationhood and creates common understandings and shared values that are essential to the growth of a civilization. No religion is fully formed at its inception. By looking at ancient Egypt, one can see how belief systems evolved to become the driving force of cultural expressions. In the early stages of human thought, the concept of God did not exist. Our early ancestors were concerned about natural phenomena and the powers that controlled these phenomena; they did not worship a personalized form of God. This stage of religious development is referred to as "magical".

In Egypt, before the concept of God existed, magical power was encapsulated in the hieroglyph of a sceptre (or rod or staff). This is one of the most enduring symbols of divine power, ever present in images of the pharaohs and the gods.

As human society evolved, people gradually gained a degree of personal identity. With a higher sense of individuality, humans began to conceive the gods in a personalized form. This stage in development is called "mythical". In Egypt, this process began during the late prehistoric period, when writing was being invented and myths were being formulated.

At that stage, every Egyptian town had its own particular deity, manifested in a material fetish or a god represented in the shape of an animal, such as a cat-goddess, cobra-goddess, ibis-god or jackal-god. As the pantheon grew in cohesiveness, these gods and goddesses were given human bodies and credited with human attributes and activities. The temples in the major cities throughout the land were constructed to venerate local gods. During the New Kingdom, these temples honoured a triad of gods based on the pattern established by the mythical family of Osiris, Isis and Horus.

Like all religions, that of ancient Egypt was complex. It evolved over the centuries from one that emphasized local deities into a national religion with a smaller number of principal deities. Some theologians think that Egypt was moving towards a monotheistic faith in a single creator, symbolized by the sun god. There was no single belief system, but the Egyptians shared a common understanding about the creation of the world and the possibility of reverting to chaos if the destructive forces of the universe were unleashed.

When the Greeks and the Romans conquered Egypt, their religion was influenced by that of Egypt. Ancient pagan beliefs gradually faded and were replaced by monotheistic religions. Today, the majority of the Egyptian population is Muslim, with a small minority of Jews and Christians.

main menu | civilization

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One of the most interesting aspects of ancient Egypt is its religion. The depth of Egyptian thinking and the rich imagination displayed in the creation of ideas and images of the gods and goddesses are beyond compare. In elaborating their beliefs, the Egyptians were working on the cosmic plane, searching for an understanding of the most basic laws of the universe.

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Egyptian’s hold pride in their identity back their achievements at the time of the Pharaohs. Egypt is culturally the heart of the modern Middle East. Egyptians are proud of their place in modern Arab culture. Much of the Arab speaking world’s music, literature, poetry, television, fine arts and other popular culture originated in Egypt. Egyptians emphasise their leadership role in education throughout the Arab world.

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The Arab Republic of Egypt is potentially a very lucrative market for organisations looking to expand into North Africa. However, many challenges remain. Political stability issues and market practices that can come across as outdated or heavily bureaucratic can put off many organisations that may otherwise have a good fit in Egypt. On the other hand, Egypt has highly educated elite and middle class populations who are familiar with Western business practices and are eager to participate in commercial opportunities in their country, and often throughout other countries in the Middle East as well. Egyptians have been sophisticated and keen traders for thousands of years. Understanding Egyptian cultural, ethical and business values as well as the impact of the Arab Spring and its aftermath is vital for any organisation doing business in Egypt.
Egypt in Focus
The Arab Republic of Egypt (officially known as Misr in Arabic) has the largest population in the Arab world, with approximately 84 million people as of 2013 according to Egypt's Central Agency for Public Mobilisation and Statistics. Egypt is located in the northeast corner of Africa as well as the Sinai Peninsula. Nearly all of Egypt's population lives along the Nile River Valley. Over 91% of Egyptians are ethnically Arab, with most of the remainder Bedouin, Berber or descendents of Greek, Turkish, Roman or other conquerors. Over 90% of Egyptians are Muslim, nearly all of whom are Sunni. Most of the rest are Coptic Christian. Arabic is the official language; English is the language of many (but not all) businesses and is understood in most urban areas and among the well educated.

Egypt is in a political state of transition. The Egyptian Revolution of 2011 led to the end of nearly 30 years of rule by Hosni Mubarek. Constitutional changes were made. Elections were held, leading to the June 2012 election of President Morsi. One year later, he was removed from office by the Egyptian Army. Egypt's population remains deeply divided, with many supporting the Muslim Brotherhood or other political parties advocating Islamist agendas. Many others support secular or progressive parties resembling democratic models found abroad. As of 2013, it is a Unitary Semi-Presidential Government. At the time of publication, Egypt's political, economic and social future can follow any number of directions.

According to the IMF, Egypt's GDP is approximately US$548 billion as of 2012. The IMF also reports a GDP growth of 2% expected in 2013, no doubt impacted by continued political and economic unrest. Egypt continues to rely heavily on foreign aid. It averages US$2.2billion from the USA alone. Multinational business partnerships could profit with Egypt's massive economic potential. Businesses that establish a presence in Egypt and forge good partnerships with Egyptian businesses are likely to be rewarded once the country becomes more stable. Organisations able to plan for the long term will increase their chance of profitability in this relatively untapped market.
Core Cultural Values Being Egyptian
Egypt's history is at least 10,000 years old, and as such is one of the world's oldest civilisations. Egyptian's pride in their identity goes back at least to their achievements at the time of the Pharaohs. Egypt is culturally the heart of the modern Middle East. Egyptians are proud of their place in modern Arab culture. Much of the Arab speaking world's music, literature, poetry, television, fine arts and other popular culture originate in Egypt. Egyptians have also emphasised their leadership role in education throughout the Arab world dating back from the time of Islamic caliphates; and later, under the Ottoman Empire, with European influences arriving in the 19th century.
Honour and Respect
The concepts of honour and respect are much more than simply being proud of an Egyptian identity. Honour is all about the reputation of a person and, more importantly, respecting their entire family and their religious values, whether Muslim or Christian. Egyptians expect to be treated with a high level of dignity as a reflection of their status and reputation. This is manifest in everything from how formally and deferentially they are greeted to their expectation of others recognising their position within Egypt's social and political hierarchy.
Relationships, Trust and Wasta
Egyptians place a lot of importance on relationships. Family ties remain important, as do affiliations through schools and other well respected institutions. Egypt's recent history also means most businesses need connections in the right places - especially in the right government offices - to conduct their business successfully. Wasta, which roughly translates as connections, networking and understanding who knows who (and in what capacity), is the main catalyst in getting things done. Do not be surprised if your Egyptian colleagues pay a lot of attention to your job title, professional qualifications, and who you know.
Important Business Values Respect First
Egyptians expect to be treated with politeness, dignity and in a fashion that reflects their status and reputation. They will also treat guests with the same good manners worthy of all honourable people. Egyptians consider it a great insult to treat another person with disrespect. Egyptians who believe they have not been treated with respect will almost certainly feel embarrassed, ashamed, or even humiliated. Never behave in a way that comes across as too informal or that seems to ignore status. Be particularly careful with humour, although Egyptians do have an excellent sense of humour once they get to know you.
Relationship Building
Expect the need to establish a good working relationship before getting down to business matters. Egyptians prefer to do business with someone they have met face to face. It is also important to make frequent visits, which shows your commitment to the Egyptian market. Try to keep your team consistent for your Egyptian business; avoid sending a different person on every visit. Do not underestimate or try to rush relationship building. Develop your own wasta.
Do's and Don'ts
Although most Egyptians will overlook small political and social faux pas, visitors doing business in Egypt should be aware of the following pitfalls that could jeopardise their business relationship.
DO

Show an interest in Egypt's long and proud history. You may even be treated to a special tour of some of the country's highlights that the average tourist may not get to see.

Learn about important Islamic practices and holidays, including Ramadan, both Eids and Hajj. In addition, learn about important Coptic Christian practices that you may not be familiar with.

Develop your repertoire of small talk. Most Egyptians have a passion for the latest gadgets, food and probably football.

Keep your feet on the floor. Never show the bottom of your feet or point your shoes toward another person, including crossing your legs, as this is symbolically highly insulting throughout the Arab world.

DON'T

Refuse gestures of hospitality as it could cause embarrassment for your hosts. On the other hand, don't admire something too much or Egyptian hospitality means they will feel obligated to give it to you!

Discuss difficult political topics, especially to do with Egyptian Revolution, even though many Egyptians will enthusiastically share their opinions with any trusted listener. Any discussions about Israel remain completely taboo in spite of the 1978 Peace Treaty - it is a cold peace.

Assume that modern/Westernised Egyptians have the same values as you. Beneath the surface, traditional cultural values may prevail.

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Doing business in Egypt - cultural considerations for HR

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The Arab Republic of Egypt is potentially a very lucrative market for organisations looking to expand into North Africa. However, many challenges remain. Political stability issues and market practices that can come across as outdated or heavily bureaucratic can put off many organisations that may otherwise have a good fit in Egypt.

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Egyptians prefer to do business with those they know and respect, hence expect to spend time cultivating a personal relationship before business is conducted.

It is important to network and cultivate a number of contracts.

Expect to be offered coffee or tea whenever you meet someone, this demonstrates hospitality. Even if you do not take a sip, always accept the beverage. Declining the offer is viewed as rejecting the person.

Wear quality conservative clothes and present yourself well at all times.

Direct eye contact is a sign of honesty and sincerity, so be prepared for disconcertingly intense stares.

Egyptians use hand gestures when they are excited. In general, they speak softly, although they may also shout or pound the table. This is not indicative of anger; it is merely an attempt to demonstrate a point.

You should demonstrate deference to the most senior person in the group, who will also be their spokesperson. This is a country where hierarchy and rank are very important.

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Egypt - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette

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Guide to Egypt and Egyptian culture, society, language, etiquette, customs, manners and protocol.

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Wash your hands before you sit down to eat if you will not use utensils. Wash your hands again at the end of the meal, especially after eating the saucy dishes. Use your right hand when picking up and eating food: never your left hand. Keep your left hand at your side. Do not place your left hand on the table, and do not pass food with your left hand. Pork will typically not be on the menu. Alcohol will usually not be served with the meal. Men and women may be asked to dine separately. If you absolutely cannot eat without some kind of utensil, it's usually perfectly all right to ask for one. Never pour your own drink, Before meals guests say, "Sahtain,” when the meal is over, guests should also say, "Daimah,” Expect to be told that it is too early to leave the first time you try: stay a while longer, but if the hosts serve some ice water or another cool drink you should leave soon thereafter.

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Dining etiquette for eating with Muslims. Islam prohibits eating pork. Meat must be prepared halal. Do not eat in front of your Muslim colleagues, or invite them to join you for a meal, during the day during Ramadan.

Dining etiquette for drinking. Always accept the cup of tea and/or coffee. Never pour your own drink. Be alert throughout the meal as to whether or not your neighbor's cup or glass needs refilling. If it is less than half full, it needs refilling. If your glass is less than half full, your neighbor or host is obliged to refill it. If he or she does not, do not refill it yourself. Indicate your need by pouring a little more drink into your neighbor's glass, even if it doesn't really need it.

Dining etiquette before the meal. Before meals guests say, "Sahtain' (the equivalent of "bon appetit"), or "Bismillah (in the name of God) when the meal is over, guests should also say, "Daimah" ("may there always be plenty at your table").

Dining etiquette for guests. Do not fill your plate full at first. It is better to return for more.

Dining etiquette utensil use. You may or may not be given 'Western utensils. Throughout the region, people use spoons, forks and knives or no utensils at all. Use only your right hand for eating. Hold any utensils in your right hand. Never use your left hand for eating.

Dining etiquette for eating with your hands. A great variety of foods can be eaten with the hands, most of the time using bread like a utensil to scoop up some of the food. Here are some other things to note about eating in Egypt:

Wash your hands before you sit down to eat if you will not use utensils. Many restaurants have washrooms and sinks out in the open specifically for this purpose. You will also need to wash your hands again at the end of the meal, especially after eating the saucy dishes, since you've probably got some messy fingers by the end of the meal.

Use your right hand when picking up and eating food: never your left hand. Keep your left hand at your side. Do not place your left hand on the table, and do not pass food with your left hand.

Pork will typically not be on the menu.

Alcohol will usually not be served with the meal.

Men and women may be asked to dine separately.

If you absolutely cannot eat without some kind of utensil, it's usually perfectly all right to ask for one.

Dining etiquette for smoking. The nargilah, or water pipe, may be offered at the end of the meal (this is filled with tobacco, marijuana and hashish. This may be illegal. Fresh mints or caraway seeds may be offered as a special treat just before you go.

Dining etiquette for leaving. Expect to be told that it is too early to leave the first time you try: stay a while longer, but if the hosts serve some ice water or another cool drink you should leave soon thereafter.

Dining etiquette for seating. The most honored position is at the head of the table with the second most important person, or the honored guest, seated next to the head of the table. (Spouses are usually not invited to business meals in restaurants. Do not ask if your spouse can join you: it will embarrass your Egyptian colleague. However, your spouse might be invited with you to a meal at home, especially if the spouse of the host will be there, which will probably be the case. The invitation will then be phrased, "My spouse invites your spouse.") Be prepared that in some more traditional homes, you might sit on carpets on the floor at very low tables. Men and women eating at more observant homes may dine in separate areas (and spend the entire evening separated) or at separate times, with the men dining first.

Dining etiquette for accepting food. You will always be offered more food. Leave a bit on your plate if you do not want more food. You will be implored to take more two or three times, in the form of a little ritual. The game is as follows: first you refuse, then the host insists, then you refuse again, then the host insists again, and then you finally give in and take a little more. This is known as the uzooma (the see-saw dialogue of imploring, rejecting, and finally submitting). If you really don't want anymore, take very little and leave it on your plate. Your host will constantly ask you if you are enjoying yourself and will implore you to have more. To leave food on your plate is a sign of wealth; to have more food to offer is also a sign of wealth. You may always have additional beverages: drink enough to cause your cup or glass to be less than half full, and it will generally be refilled. A reminder: never refill your own glass: always refill your neighbor's glass, and he or she will refill yours.

Dining etiquette for order of service. The honored guest is served first then the oldest male, then the rest of the men, then children, and finally women.

Dining etiquette for when to begin eating. Do not begin to eat or drink anything until the oldest male at the table has been served and has begun.

Dining etiquette for the end of the meal. At the end of the meal, it is appropriate to thank the host or hostess for a wonderful meal.

Dining etiquette for restaurants. In informal restaurants, you may be required to share a table. If so, do not force conversation: act as if you are seated at a private table. Women should be sensitive to the fact that they may be seated only with other women. Wait staff may be summoned by subtly raising your hand or by making eye contact; waving or calling their names is very impolite.

Dining etiquette for discussing business. Business meals are generally not good times to discuss business or make business decisions. Take your cue from your Egyptian associates: if they bring up business. then it's okay to discuss it, but wait to take your lead from their conversation.

Dining etiquette for paying the bill. Usually the one who does the inviting pays the bill, although the guest is expected to make an effort to pay. Sometimes other circumstances determine who pays (such as rank). Making payment arrangements ahead of time so that no exchange occurs at the table is a very classy way to host and is very common. Western businesswomen, if out with men, will have a problem paying the bill at a restaurant: if you want to, make payment arrangements ahead of time, and don't wait for the check to arrive at the table. It may be easiest to do this at one of the international hotel dining rooms (they are rarely as much fun, but they are very convenient, and they do avoid a lot of problems!).

Dining etiquette for tipping. Tips run about 10 percent, and are typically not included in the bill (but double-check to be sure).

Dining etiquette for serving a meal. Do not serve alcohol or pork.

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Egyptian Dining Etiquette. Learn or review dining etiquette for Egypt. Topics for include, among others, mealtimes and typical food, national drinks, toasts, table manners, tipping etiquette, business lunch etiquette, host etiquette, guest etiquette, regional differences, dining etiquette in the home, and dining etiquette at a restaurant.

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1.    If you are invited to an Egyptian's home for dinner. Presentable gifts such as good quality fruit, pastries, cookies or other sweets are a perfect way of gifting. Practical gifts for the family are acceptable as well.
2.    If you have been staying with a family, an appropriate thank you gift would be an expensive item representative of your country (something that would be hard to obtain in Egypt.)
3.    A small gift for the children is adequate and shows affection.
4.    Always give gifts with the right hand. Both hands may be used if the gift is heavy.
5. Always wrap the gift. Gifts are typically wrapped twice – first in ordinary paper and then again in brightly coloured paper, although white paper is acceptable.

6.     For a man to give a woman the gift, the mother, wife or sister must be presented. Otherwise, the gift may be perceived as too personal.

7.     Remove your shoes upon entering an Egyptian's home.

8.     Compliment your host's house.

9.     Generally, gifts should be opened later unless the gift is to be enjoyed right away (such as dessert for dinner.) In this case, the gift may be opened in front of the giver.

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Things to Know

Things to Avoid

1. Take a gift if you are invited to an Egyptian's home for dinner. Ideas would include good quality fruit, pastries, cookies or other sweets. Practical gifts for the family are acceptable as well.

2. If you have been staying with a family, an appropriate thank you gift would be an expensive item representative of your country - something that would be hard to obtain in Egypt.

3. A small gift for the children is acceptable and shows affection.

4. Always give gifts with the right hand. Both hands may be used if the gift is heavy.

5. Always wrap the gift. Gifts are typically wrapped twice - first in ordinary paper and then again in brightly colored paper, although white paper is acceptable.

6. For a man to give a woman the gift, it must be presented as from his mother, wife or sister. Otherwise, the gift may be perceived as too personal.

7. Remove your shoes upon entering an Egyptian's home.

8. Compliment your host's house.

9. Generally, gifts should be opened later unless the gift is to be enjoyed right away - such as dessert for dinner. In this case, the gift may be opened in front of the giver.

1. Do not give flowers. These are usually reserved for weddings or the sick.

2. Do not praise the children - it is believed to bring them ill fortune

3. Do not admire something in their home too directly - Egyptians may feel the obligation to give it to you. In return, you would be expected to reciprocate with a gift of similar value.

4. Never give the Qu'ran as a gift - it is not appropriate for personal or business gift giving due to its significance.

Business Gift Giving

Business gift giving in Egypt is not common in the social setting, but is accepted as a gesture of thanks in the business relationship. If you have business in Egypt, expect a farewell gift on your last meeting.

Do...

Personalize your gift by having it engraved to add a personal touch.

Present your gift immediately upon arrival in the country.

Make sure you give or receive gifts with the right hand, not with the left. Using both hands is acceptable.

Do give electronic gadgets. The gift of a compass is an example of an appropriate gift as Muslims always face the east when saying their daily prayers no matter where they are in the world.

Offer your gift humbly and incidentally.

Do not give...

Too expensive or elaborate of a gift as it may be perceived as a bribe.

Gifts with political connotations from the US. Many Arabs disagree with US politics.

Alcohol or items made from alcohol, such as cologne or perfume. Devout Muslims don't drink alcohol.

Pork - Egyptians do not eat pork.

Art, including photographs that depict natural scenes. It is Islamic belief that man should not reproduce what God has made.

Cutlery, as it represents the severing of a relationship.

Too personal of a gift as gifts symbolically show the relationship between the giver and the receiver

Gifts to any other business relationship other than your key contact person, usually the decision maker.

Religion and Gift Giving

Muslim

Gift giving in Egypt is most prevalent during Egyptian holidays. The birthday of the Prophet Mohammed (Mouled Al-Nabi), is geared particularly toward children. The children receive candy gifts usually sold in open markets, although most are not allowed to eat them for hygienic reasons. Candy dolls are common for the girls and candy horses for the boys, both elaborately decorated with paper and beads.

At the beginning of Ramadan, all children are given the gift of a lantern made of colored glass and tin. The children carry them out into the dusk to show them off. Because all children get the same gift, only the small children show much interest in the lanterns. The adults give gifts to the poor during Ramadan.

The Feast of Breaking the Fast (Eid Al Fitr), the end of Ramadan, is celebrated by all Muslims. Children are traditionally given new clothes. During the 3 day feast, children are given cash from every adult they come in contact with. Wives commonly receive gifts of jewelry from their husbands.

Christian

Coptic Christians (Egyptian Christians) celebrate Christmas on January 7. As in the West, children are the focus and are given new clothes to wear on Christmas Eve, January 6th. However, Egyptian children tend to show less excitement about toys received on Christmas Day. This is due to the fact that their gifts are often purchased at Christmas bazaars where profits go to charity, and the selection and quality is poor. Older children may receive small gifts of cash from extended family members and women generally receive gifts of clothing. [3]

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Things to Know Things to Avoid Take a gift if you are invited to an Egyptian's home for dinner. Ideas would include good quality fruit, pastries, cookies or other sweets. Practical gifts for the family are acceptable as well.

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1.     It is useful to have an Egyptian agent to do business with.

2.     Business will not proceed until your counterpart decides that they like you. The social side of the deal goes hand in hand with the work-related one.

3.     Regarding negotiating techniques do not use high-pressure tactics. Note that Egyptians are generally tough negotiators.

4.     The pace of business is slower in Egypt than in the European working culture, so expecting immediate results is not wise. Moreover, keeping foreign trade partners waiting is a common practice and you might not be able to set more meetings in one day.

5.     A typical business day is usually from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm in the summer and 9:00 am to 1:00 pm with an extra 5:00 to 7:00 pm in the winter.

6.     No business is conducted on Friday – the Muslim holy day. Most people do not work on Thursdays either.

7.     Before setting a meeting, check that it is not Ramadan (Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, it is seen by Muslims as a worldwide month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. Working hours for business and government offices are shortened during that period.

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General advice is available here.

Individuals and organisations that operate in Egypt or are likely to be affected by the conflict should ensure their security systems and procedures are robust and effective and familiarise themselves with the guidance from the British Government.

For personal assistance with travel safety arrangements, local intelligence and cultural briefings, contact us now and ask to speak to one of our trusted special advisors.

* The official name of Egypt is Arab Republic of Egypt.
* The official language is Arabic.
* The capital and also the largest city is Cairo.
* The population is estimated to 84 million.

Business Mentality

- Egyptian business people appreciate a thorough presentation of your information, so make sure to have research and documentation to support your claims. Your documents should include two dates: the Gregorian (Western) and the Hijrah (Arabic) date.

- It is useful to have an Egyptian agent do to business. A local intermediary person would speed up the business process.

- Business will not proceed until your counterpart decides that they like you. The social side of the deal goes hand in hand with the work-related one.

- Regarding negotiating techniques - do not use high-pressure tactics. Note though that Egyptians are generally tough negotiators.

- The pace of business is slower in Egypt than in the European working culture, so expecting immediate results is not wise. Moreover, keeping foreign trade partners waiting is a common practice and you might not be able to set more meetings in one day.

- A typical business day is usually from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm in the summer and 9:00 am to 1:00 pm with an extra 5:00 to 7:00 pm in the winter.

- No business is conducted on Friday - the Muslim holy day. Most people do not work on Thursdays either.

- Before setting a meeting, check that it is not Ramadan. Working hours for business and government offices are shortened during that period.

Greetings

- Since there are plenty greeting styles in Egypt, it is safest to wait for your counterpart to initiate the greeting, especially at a first meeting.

- When addressing your Egyptian counterparts for the first time, you should use their title followed by their surname until invited to do otherwise. Titles are a sign of stature and are viewed with pride; therefore, it is important to use them. If an Egyptian does not have a title, a courtesy title such as "Mr", "Mrs", or "Miss" is appropriate.

The Art of Conversation

- It is advisable to have an Egyptian representative to explain the major points of your business in Arabic. Many educated Egyptians speak multiple languages, but they appreciate brevity and, therefore, would prefer Arabic.

- Do not be surprised if, at some point, voices are raised; it is not an argument, but just the way Egyptians discuss matters.

- Welcome topics of conversation include Egyptian achievements - both ancient and modern, the positive reputation of Egyptian leaders, Egyptian cotton, sports.

- Try to avoid enquiring about the female members of their family. Do not bring up the Israel topic.

Business meetings and meals

- Regarding dress code, visitors are expected to follow Egyptian discretion standards. Despite the country's hot temperatures, most of the body must remain covered.Wearing Egyptian traditional clothing may be seen as offensive to the natives. If an Egyptian man gazes intensely at a woman, it generally means that her dress is not "modest" enough.

- Punctuality in Egypt is not considered the main priority. Your counterpart might arrive late for a meeting, but make sure that you arrive on time yourself.

- Business cards should be printed in English on one side and in Arabic on the other.

- Presents are welcome, but do not forget to give or receive them using your right hand or with both hands - never with the left. Small electronic devices, chocolate and compasses are popular gifts.

- For business meals: stringent Muslims will not touch alcohol or pork. Make sure to have a selection of non-alcoholic drinks available if you invite them for an event.

- Do not "wipe out" your plate. It is polite to leave a small portion of food - it means you have had enough.

- Be careful not to add salt to food, especially in an Egyptian home. It is considered an offence.

Body Language

- Do make eye-contact when meeting with your Egyptian business associates, especially with male colleagues. Looking in someone's eyes is a sign of honesty and trust.

- Arab men usually walk hand in hand although Western-style Egyptians rarely do this. If an Egyptian holds your hand, accept this as a gesture of friendship.

- The left hand is considered unclean in Egypt. Unless you are handling something considered dirty, always use the right hand. Avoid gestures with the left hand.

- Pointing is considered extremely rude.

- Do not cross your legs when sitting. Moreover, showing the bottom of your foot is considered offensive.

- The 'thumbs up' sign is offensive in Egypt and the entire Arab world.

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Business Culture and Etiquette in Egypt | Today Translations

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